Belavia eyes Belgrade-Minsk service via Budapest

Belavia, the national carrier of Belarus, plans to launch services from Minsk to Belgrade this summer, the Serbian Ministry for Transportation has confirmed for EX-YU Aviation News. The airline intends to operate the flights to the Serbian capital via Budapest.

Belavia first announced plans to launch services to Belgrade in November last year after the two countries agreed on a bilateral air transportation agreement. Several years ago it was planned for the airline to launch winter charters from Minsk to the Nis Constantine the Great Airport. However, the airline and hoteliers at the nearby mountain resort of Kopaonik failed to reach an agreement.

While it is unlikely that flights between Minsk and Belgrade could generate too much interest, the Belarusian national carrier offers an extensive network to Russia which could entice some transit passengers. The Belgrade – Moscow route is one of the busiest operating out of the Serbian capital with 28 weekly flights planned for the upcoming summer season.

Furthermore, Belavia has smaller aircraft in its fleet such as the Bombardier CRJ200 and the Embraer E175. However, the Budapest – Belgrade service could generate significant traffic.